Nopal Cactus Benefit: Powerful Fruit or Worthless Fluff?

Throughout the years, Americans and others around the world have been searching for ways to improve their overall health, by using natural remedies. There are plenty of excellent natural foods, which can provide your body with the nutrients needed to get and stay health, but the prickly pear cactus is one that everyone should question.

It has gained popularity for providing a variety of helpful benefits to the sick, but it can also be used by anyone regardless of health. Below, you will learn about the potentially helpful benefits of the Nopal Cactus.

What is it?

The Mexican culture has always had the tradition of living off of the land. They’ve come to find that the prickly pear cactus is a very productive plant that can be eaten, but can also be used for medicine purposes.

When attempting to harness the benefits of this plant, you must venture out and seek the younger plants, since the older ones are simply too hard and tough to eat.

The powerful treat contains plenty of pectin and fiber and can be prepared in a variety of different ways.

Fighting Disease

In the past few years, several scientific studies have been conducted on the health benefits of the Nopal Cactus. Although the studies were slightly limited, it concluded that the plant is capable of lowering cholesterol levels in the body.

Some scientists also believe the plant can actually kill viruses, within the body. Below, you will find a list of the diseases and medical conditions, which can be treated and combated, with the prickly pear cactus.

Type 2 Diabetes

High Cholesterol

Colitis

Diarrhea

Obesity

Viral Infections

Preparing and Eating

As mentioned above, it is possible to eat this plant in a variety of different forms. For instance, it has been frequently used, as an ingredient in candy products and jellies.

Of course, it can also be added to a variety of different meals, including tacos, salads and egg dishes. The nopales, which is a common name given to the plant, is a type of vegetable, which can be used within a number of different recipes and meals. It can be added to omelets, when chopped and diced.

On the other hand, the fruit of the plant can actually be chewed, as a bubblegum. You’ll need to cut off the spines and remove the skin, but this will allow you to enjoy the fruit, which tastes very similar to watermelon. Although they can be eaten raw, it is also possible to add the mixture to a beverage or recipe.

Antioxidant Properties

The biggest benefit of the plant is the antioxidant properties, which are provided, when consuming it. The plant is capable of improving the body’s overall health, by helping it remove free radicals, which can damage the cells, from the body. This can help prevent cancer and other diseases.

Safeness

Overall, there have been no dangerous side effects reported, from those, who have consumed the plant. It is believed to be completely safe, but there are a few potential negative side effects including,
mild diarrhea,
bloating,
nausea,
headache.